Question 1

What do record labels look for in an artist?

Hugh McIntyre · Accepted Answer

For decades, when record labels went looking for new names to sign, they sought out star quality and talent, as well as marketability. Now, they’re still interested in the same things, but they also want so much more.
As is mentioned in the rest of this article, record labels today are particularly intrigued by artists who already have a career. It’s a much safer bet on their part to sign a musician who has a large fan base, who knows who they are and has found their style and sound, whose social media is full of engaged followers, and who can supply numbers on streaming sites like Spotify and Apple Music that show that there’s already real interest.
Record labels are still open to lesser-known acts, ones who haven’t yet racked up millions of streams or accrued massive followings, but they need to have something incredibly special that no one else does. They must be certified, will-be stars, or perhaps they’ve crafted what will go on to easily become a radio smash, with the right promotion.
If you want to get signed by a major record label, try building your career first. They’ll be interested, and perhaps even come calling, when your success is undeniable.

Question 2

Is it hard to get signed to a record label?

Hugh McIntyre · Accepted Answer

Yes. Sorry, but that’s the truth.
Securing a record deal with a major record label is near-impossible these days. There are countless artists and groups looking for the same contract you are, and competition is incredibly fierce. As was mentioned before, these days, the biggest companies are almost exclusively interested in acts with established followings and proven track records. This may sound odd, as those things are supposed to come after signing with a record label, but that’s just how it is these days.
Conversely, there are now more record labels than ever, though they’re not all major players in the music industry. Thanks to advancements in technology, a number of important startups, and changes in pretty much everything about the music industry, there are far more options than in the past. Now, anyone can create a record label, so finding one that might be interested in you is technically more likely than ever…but don’t necessarily expect a lot from these companies. Most don’t have budgets for million dollar videos or huge radio campaigns, but they may still be able to help you get your career off the ground.

Question 3

Do record labels control artists?

Hugh McIntyre · Accepted Answer

For the most part, yes. While they may be rooted in a creative industry, record labels are still businesses, and they must make money, so they often try to steer their signed musicians toward the popular styles and sounds of the day. This is why when something becomes big, many top-tier stars rush to find hits of their own in the same vein, and why something completely original may not receive the same attention as other releases.
There have been countless stories throughout the years of artists–even superstars–describing the incredible power record labels held over them. Some acts were forced to record songs they didn’t care about, change lyrics, or promote one tune as a single over another. In some instances, record labels also decide the names of songs, albums, and even pick the art that covers a CD.
The power record labels exert over artists can move beyond simply creative fields as well. According to The Balance, “Depending on the contract structure, record labels also have the ability to set the amount of money their artists earn.” There are also examples of acts who were taken advantage of when it came to revenues, royalties, and more.
Being signed to a major record label may provide the opportunity to become a star, but it is not without some serious possible drawbacks.

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